#YPNTALK

As summer begins to wind down, you may be thinking, “How can I spend my time now?” Well, you’re in luck because the South Bend Region has many nonprofit organizations that could benefit from your time and talent. Giving back has surprising benefits for you too. Volunteering diversifies your experiences, provides networking opportunities and allows you to have fun all while supporting your favorite cause. Not sure of where to start? We’ve found a number of ways you can give back this fall.

1. You can help raise awareness about lending a hand to our homeless neighbors on Tuesday, September 12 from 6:00 – 10:00 a.m. at HOPE Ministries. HOPE Ministries is in need of YPs to assist with set-up and tear-down at their annual partner Pancake Breakfast. If you are unable to volunteer at the Pancake Breakfast, there are always opportunities to volunteer during their regular hours or other special events. For more info or to sign up, contact Jill Gunn or call 574.235.4150.

2.In conjunction with Hunger Action Month, the Food Bank of Northern Indiana is hosting its inaugural Too Good 2 Waste: An Ugly Food Event to Feed Hungry Kids on Thursday, September 28 at the Gillespie Conference & Special Events Center. Assistance will be needed for registration and set-up. In addition, you can volunteer at the Food Bank during the day Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and in the evenings on Wednesdays and Thursdays. To volunteer and learn more about Hunger Action Month, contact Marijo Martinecor call 574.232.9986 ext. 124.

3. You can raise awareness for cancer survivors and victims at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk on Saturday, October 14 at Beutter Park Riverwalk. The American Cancer Society is in need of volunteers to distribute water, sell t-shirts, register participants and provide a fun experience for all walkers. Register to walkor volunteer by contactingNicole Van Duyn.

4.Give the gift of life by donating blood at the South Bend Medical Foundation. The Medical Foundationis always seeking opportunities for businesses to hold an onsite blood drive. Their staff makes hosting a blood drive simple – all you do is select the day and provide the donors, and the Medical Foundation takes care of the rest. No time to organize a blood drive? You can still go to any of The Medical Foundation locations to donate as an individual. Can’t donate blood at all? There are opportunities to assist in the office as needed.